Quick Summary
- The charging area is defined south of 60th Street when active; always check posted signs and official updates.
- Staying in Midtown often means you are near the boundary; avoid unnecessary entries into the zone.
- Collecting at an airport the morning you leave can simplify costs and traffic.
Many visitors sleep near 42nd Street, enjoy the theatres on foot, then collect a vehicle only when it is time to depart. The congestion zone applies to the area south of 60th Street when in effect, so route choice matters. If you plan to leave the city by expressway, arranging car hire at the airport on your departure morning keeps you out of the busiest streets until you are ready to go.
What is the zone and where might you incur a charge?
The boundary sits at 60th Street, with charges for entries into the defined area when the programme is active. Rules on entry points, times and exemptions can evolve, which is why you should rely on the latest signage and official notices before you drive south of the line.
Will a Midtown stay be affected?
It depends on your movements. If you only need a vehicle to leave town, you can avoid driving into the zone altogether by collecting at the airport just before you depart. Starting from JFK keeps you on expressways from the terminal rather than navigating crosstown first. If you prefer New Jersey, a simple alternative is to pick up across the Hudson; see availability on our Newark page and join the turnpike from there.
Which vehicle types are practical for an exit run?
Winter can be slushy and windy, so stability and tyres matter. If you expect cold snaps, consider SUV choices at JFK for confident traction out of town. Travelling with a family or skis? Compare cabin space on our people carrier options to make loading easier on the kerb.
Planning pointers before you collect
Combine errands into a single entry and exit if you must cross south of 60th on any given day. Consider parking overnight near your hotel and walking while you are in town, then collect the vehicle on departure day to keep costs simple. For a compact overview of rules and tactics, our congestion pricing guide summarises what visitors should know.
Why book with Hola Car Rentals for New York?
You get Free Cancellation up to 48 hours before pick-up on eligible rates, All Inclusive+ to bundle maximum coverage, and transparent pricing with no additional fees. Selected itineraries include maximum liability protection and free travel insurance up to US$150,000, and cashback on tolls is available in many areas.
FAQs
Does the charge apply if I only drive for a few blocks?
If you enter the defined area south of 60th Street while the programme is active, a charge can apply even for short trips.
Do expressways avoid the fee automatically?
Rules can change. Treat routes south of 60th as potentially chargeable and follow posted guidance on the day.
Is it easier to collect at the airport on departure day?
Often yes, because you avoid city traffic and charges until you are ready to leave.
Should I book a larger vehicle for winter?
An SUV can add stability and luggage room in cold weather. Choose a size that fits your party and kerbside loading plans.
Want a calm exit from Manhattan? Book with Hola Car Rentals and set up a smooth airport collection that suits your route.
